Two Drinks that Changed History Forever
Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18, NIV).
An Amazing Fact: Two fatal drinks changed history. On the last day of Lincoln’s life, the great emancipator said: “We have cleared up a colossal job. Slavery is abolished. After reconstruction, the next great question will be the overthrow and suppression of the legalized liquor traffic.”
That evening, Friday, April 14, 1865, John Wilkes Booth stopped by a saloon to fill himself with liquor to nerve himself for his evil plan. That same night, Lincoln’s bodyguard, Parker, left the theater for drinks of liquor at the same saloon! While he was away, Booth shot Lincoln. These two drinks were among the costliest in American history. (Moving Mountains)
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Booth was killed twelve days later, and Parker was totally disgraced. Obviously, both of them were guilty of crimes but there was a vast difference. Booth intended to murder without remorse while Parker was negligent and then grief stricken about his own irresponsibility.
Most likely all of us have been a Parker at some point during our lives. We have ‘left our post’ and fallen to folly. For some, it was a life lesson that came with a very high price tag; for others, the full pain hasn’t yet been realized. Stay alert!
I have never leaned heavily on alcohol, but I’ve made some mighty foolish decisions on my own. After such acts of rebellion/ignorance, you’re wondering how did I get here? For me, it took many years to re-establish what I had lost (i.e., family, money, employment, friends and trust).
My gratitude list is extensive. First and foremost, I had to realize that I was still alive for a purpose. God had protected and saved me in spite of myself. In His omniscience, He has a way of moving us through life’s obstacle course in order to achieve His goals. I needed Him more than anything else. Even a little alcohol tended to make my thoughts out of focus—and truthfully, I like being in control (with God’s help). I want to remember people, places and things.
God offers forgiveness for all who genuinely seek it. My life has been changed (for the better) because I was able to humbly turn to Him and say, “I’m a mess! I only need You!”
Loving Jesus, thank You for Your protection during those times of rebellion. Help me to give You more and more control of my life. AMEN.